“We picked out a pretty poor time to get anything to eat,” said the purser. “This is the very height of the luncheon hour. If you aren’t real hungry, I suggest we knock about a bit and let the jam ease up. Then we’ll feel free to eat as slowly as we like and stay as long as we like. And we’ll get better service, too. What do you say?”
“Suits me,” said Willie, who was so happy that he didn’t care what happened.
“I’m agreed,” said Roy.
“Good,” replied the purser. “The only question is how we shall put in the time.”
“I suspect Willie would like to see some of the sights,” remarked Roy. “He’s been in New York before, but there are lots of things neither of us have seen.”
“All right. We’ll just keep going until we strike something he wants to see.”
They continued on down West Street, along the water-front. The movement of traffic proved a continual fascination to Willie. He never tired of watching the endless procession of trucks, drays, express wagons, motor-cars, and other vehicles, with their unbelievable loads of merchandise. From time to time they sauntered out on a pier, their uniforms gaining them admission without question.
“See that odd little boat over there?” said the purser, as they walked out on one of the piers.
“Sure,” replied Willie. “I can’t help seeing her. She’s the only boat in the dock.”
“Do you notice anything unusual about her?” said the purser.